The JRS Voices Program gives young people the chance to meet a refugee and hear first hand the reasons behind why people are forced to flee their homes.

Students are given the opportunity to examine the situation of forcibly displaced people on the global level, and to critically examine Australia’s response, while also identifying ways they can actively be involved in alleviating the crisis.

All people have the right to live in safety regardless of their religion, nationality or race. And all people seeking protection and assistance should be granted opportunities for resettlement.

We believe it’s important to educate the next generation of leaders about these issues so they can enact positive change on behalf of people who find themselves forcibly displaced. People who often find themselves not only without a home, but, without a voice. Now more than ever, all our voices are needed to tell people seeking asylum, and indeed, the entire world that we stand by them and defend their rights to safe and dignified living.

By hearing the voices of refugees we hope these young people will be inspired to lend their voices to the pubic debate, something all Christians have been called to do. As stated in Proverbs 31:8-9, we have been asked to ‘speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.’

If you’re interested in organising a presentation at your school please contact JRS on 02 9098 9336 or email matthew.potts@jrs.org.au

Speaker Cost = $250 per hour long presentation (+$75 for an additional presentation on the same day.) We also ask for an additional minimum donation of $100 to support JRS’s work in the community with people seeking asylum.